SIST EN 61229:2001/A1:2001

Overview

EN 61229:1995/A1:1998 (CLC) covers rigid protective covers used for live working on a.c. installations. This European standard (EN) follows a parallel vote process and aligns with international practice for protection against electric shock (ICS 13.260). The document defines essential requirements for the application of rigid covers intended to reduce risk during live-line operations and routine electrical maintenance.

Key Topics

• Scope and purpose: establishes the intended use of rigid protective covers for live working on alternating-current installations and their role in mitigating electric shock hazards.
• Design and construction principles: guidance on durable, insulating materials and robust construction to support safe handling and deployment in field conditions.
• Marking and documentation: requirements for clear identification, instructions for correct use, and traceability to support safe application and maintenance.
• Operational considerations: recommended practices for use during live-line operations, storage, inspection and care to maintain protective performance.

Keywords: rigid protective covers, live working, a.c. installations, electrical safety, insulation, EN 61229, CLC, live-line working.

Applications

EN 61229 is relevant to organizations and professionals involved in live electrical work where access to energized a.c. conductors is necessary. Typical applications include:

• Utility companies performing routine maintenance or switching on energized networks.
• Industrial facilities with live-line intervention requirements during production.
• Contractors and service technicians carrying out on-site repairs and inspections without complete de-energization.
• Safety managers and procurement teams specifying protective equipment that supports regulatory compliance.

Benefits of conforming to EN 61229 include improved operator safety, consistent selection of protective covers, reduced risk of accidental contact with live parts, and support for compliance with broader electrical safety obligations.

Related Standards

EN 61229 sits within a framework of standards addressing live working and personal protective equipment for electrical hazards. Relevant references and topics to consider alongside EN 61229 include:

• IEC/EN standards for live working and insulating equipment (consult current lists from CLC/CENELEC and IEC).
• Standards and guidance covering personal protective equipment (PPE) for electrical work and safe working procedures.
• National regulations and utility technical rules that reference EN-series standards for live-line operations.

For implementation, safety teams should integrate EN 61229 guidance into their live working procedures, training, inspection regimes and procurement specifications to ensure protective covers are selected and used correctly for a.c. installations.